Hour 1 of Ottawa Now for Thurs. February 19th, 2026

The City of Ottawa is planning to pedestrianize streets in the ByWard Market, revitalize the historic ByWard Building, and eventually convert a parking garage into a ‘mixed-use destination’. It’s all part of a long-term makeover that will cost millions of dollars. Kristy Cameron chats with Victoria Williston, the new Executive Director and Communications Manager for the ByWard Market District Authority. Later in today's program, we also check in with Deek Labelle, who is the Manager and Co-Owner of The Laff. Meantime, it’s been over a year since Canadians started swearing off American products, a nationwide attempt to take a stand against the Trump tariffs. The ‘Buy Canadian’ movement was a huge part of 2025, and it’s still holding up today. However, such declarations have been less vocal in 2026. But one Ontario man is working hard to keep the Canadian patriotism going, highlighting Canadian brands for 140 consecutive days. Chris Agro pays us a visit in Hour 1. Plus, we check in with CTV's Jackie Perez, as the Canadian Women's Hockey Team goes for Gold in Milan.